Abstracts are included of the major papers presented at a working conference focusing on successful educational programs and dissemination of practices. Three papers describe the rural setting by examining the education of American Indian youth, educational systems in the rural South, and change in rural areas. A paper on change gives suggestions for implementing innovations in rural area schools. Three major topics comprise the problem-defining and problem-solving sections: (1) preparation of rural youth for the world of work; (2) political aspects of small communities; and (3) quality instruction in rural schools. Discussion by representatives of government agencies are included in each section. Recommendations are proposed for improving education in rural areas. The conference program, lists of speakers and participants, brief descriptions of innovative practices, and evaluation of the conference are contained. (JAM)